David Wilcox

WILCOX, DAVID KEITH Frankfort David Keith Wilcox of Frankfort, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 31st, 2012. David was born on February 25, 1946 in Grand Rapids, the son of Thomas and Hermina "Mina" (DeWitt) Wilcox. David graduated from Union High School, in Grand Rapids, and later received a degree from Michigan State University. David served in the US Army, from 1966 to 1968, in Vietnam. Unfortunately, it was here that he was exposed to Agent Orange. Many thanks to the Veterans Administration for their assistance to David, as he faced the effects of this exposure. Dave learned to fly a hang glider, off the bluffs of Elberta and Greenpoint, and pursued this sport whole heartedly for many years. He was a charter member of the United States Hang Gliding Association. He financed his early flying adventures by advertising local businesses on his hang glider. It is believed that he flew the only glider that said "Pizza, tacos, subs"! Another activity he loved was fishing. He spent many days enjoying this sport on the numerous lakes and rivers of Benzie county. He shared his love of fishing with his daughter, who fondly remembers her pink fishing pole from childhood. Watching sports was another lifelong interest. Of course, he was a Spartan fan. This did not change even when his daughter, Jennifer, attended University of Michigan. He also cheered the Lions and Tigers on through many years, some bad...some good! Dave was a philosophical thinker. Although he was physically limited for several years, he probably never stopped pondering the mysteries of life and the universe. Dave was fortunate to have had both wonderful care and caring, from the staff members at the Paul Oliver Long Term Care Unit. They worked tirelessly to help him and added immensely to the quality of his past several years. Dave's greatest accomplishment was being a loving father to his daughter, Jennifer. Dave leaves behind his beloved daughter, Jennifer Lynn Wilcox; sisters and their husbands, Kay Ellen and Tom Wright, Cindy and John Kloosterman; nieces / nephew Kimberly, Sarah, Beth, Justin, Kristin, Susie, and Laura. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Mina Wilcox; his brother, Dan; and his nephew, Thomas (Tommie). Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, November 10th, 2012, at 2pm at Jowett Family Funeral Home, 7223 South Street, Benzonia, MI 49616. Fellowship and food to follow immediately at same location. Donations, in his name, may be made to Paul Oliver Long Term Care or to the veterans organization of your choice. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Service.